FLIR Systems

Thermography – the quickest way to stop energy loss
July 14th 2006

With the onus on the construction industry as well as private and public enterprise to minimise energy loss, thermal imaging is now considered a vital tool in the armoury of any building constructor or maintenance professional. For many, the FLIR Systems ThermaCAM range is the industry standard. As a result of continued, high investment in R & D, the company has grown its product range substantially and has made several new introductions. No other company can now match FLIR Systems' for its extent of camera choice that includes many standard features and options.

All energy-related infrared tasks are prime applications for ThermaCAM® range. They often reveal problems when it is least expected. A thermographer at a semiconductor plant recently described how, during his normal inspection route, he observed a pipe that was extremely hot and running to drain. When the pipe was traced back to source, he discovered that purified heated water had been improperly connected directly to the drain. With the installation corrected the company saved an estimated £60,000 a year in heating and water costs.

Thermography also offers quick, non-contact diagnosis of equipment whilst in operation. Although vibration and oil analysis is generally used to monitor and protect large motor bearings for those with restricted access, infrared is a good solution. The efficient running of these mechanical devices is crucial in cutting unnecessary energy consumption and an application that is perfect for the ThermaCAM® P65.

This top-of-the-range FLIR Systems' camera remains the professional thermographer's choice and provides real-time performance with an unmatched level of thermal sensitivity. This translates into exceptional image quality and greater problem-solving efficiency.

A high degree of infrared innovation characterises each generation of FLIR Systems' infrared cameras and the latest ThermaCAM B-Series buildingspecific range is no exception. All models from the professional B20 down to the find-it-fixit ThermaCAM B2 now measure from -20°C to 100°C. They provide immediate, high-resolution documentation of as-built or post-restoration quality, plumbing and building envelope water leakage and energy efficiency. Most models have a patented, automatic dew point identification alarm for determining areas susceptible to condensation and mould-growth in real time.

The thermal sensitivity of these infrared cameras is already an impressive 80mK but with two new 50mK resolution models added to the range inspectors can now see problems even more clearly. The new uncooled cameras allow highly sensitive thermal mapping of structures and architectural features enabling much more detailed diagnosis of energy loss problems.

All FLIR Systems'infrared cameras meet the criteria established by BSRIA in its guide – Air Tightness Testing for New Dwellings – a practical guide for builders and testers (BG 11/2004) ISBN 0-86022-6484.

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